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Behrendorff set for Australian T20 debut

James Pattinson's shattered Ashes hopes have boosted injury-prone quick Jason Behrendorff's Test hopes on the eve of his international debut.

Pattinson has again aggravated a stress fracture in his back, forcing him to take an indefinite break from bowling, as medical staff desperately search for a way to manage the recurring issue.

While Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are all on track to play the first Ashes Test in Brisbane, Australia's second-tier fast bowlers have moved up the pecking order.

Nathan Coulter-Nile was the leading wicket-taker in the one-day international series loss to India. And, Behrendorff is likely to make his long-awaited Australian debut in Saturday's first T20 international against India in Ranchi.

Jackson Bird and Chadd Sayers are the other pacemen who will be under consideration in the event of injury or a rest for Starc, Hazlewood or Cummins.

But despite the apparent promotion, Behrendorff doesn't want to think about a possible baggy green.

"It's very unfortunate for James and he's been working so hard to get back," Behrendorff said.